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| | The Galapagos Islands is a collection of some thirteen volcanic islands and associated isles and rocks situated just under the equator, about 600 miles west of Ecuador in South America. The oldest of the islands are about 4 million years old and the youngest are still in the process formation. Indeed, the Galapagos Islands are considered to be one of the most active volcanic regions in the world. Perhaps Galapagos' most prevalent feature is its harsh and dynamic volcanic landscape. |
However, amidst the volcanic geography of these islets plant life takes root in basalt rock, centurion turtles roam about and giant Galapagos tortoises grunt in distant highlands. Prehistoric marine iguanas spit their salty spray and flightless cormorants and tiny penguins swim in the Equatorial waters while charming red-billed tropicbirds screech across the sky. Some pink flamingos are sometimes seen and bathing in hidden lagoons or whales basking offshore. A new day in the Galapagos begins with its inhabitants in harmony with the nature. Galapagos thus supports remarkable ecosystems where the wildlife is most abundant and active.
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But sadly enough the tortoise populations are being decimated, most of them have become extinct or endangered. Today, the Pinta island tortoise is survived by a single male, named "Lonesome George".
In the 450 years of human history, the islands have been used as prison colonies, naval ports and research station.
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The formation of the islands is characterized by the dynamic volcanic activity and the effects of rain and the continual force of the vast Pacific at their coasts. The quarter-moon shape of Genovesa and the hollow core across the bay from Pinnacle Rock at Bartolome testify to these islands born of fire and weathered by salt-water. These forces created the setting for the trials of evolution of Darwin as the specially-adapted animals, plants and terrain inspired him on his first theories of evolution.
The Galapagos is a world within itself, with the odd creatures that populate this desolate world filling every niche around the beholder.
Know more about Galapagos:
Allwondersoftheworld.com describes the isolated, volcanic islands of Galapagos that feels the visitor's mind with delight and makes his camera flashing continuously at the fascinating sights of flora and fauna.
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